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Clients often know that they need help with export compliance but don’t know where to start. A written Export Compliance Program is the ideal way to keep compliant and is a good investment for any company to make. An ECP establishes clear accountability, written instructions, and reduces risk of non-compliance. However, an ECP is costly and time consuming, requiring a significant commitment on the part of management. If the exporter has not experienced problems or incurred any fines it is easy to make compliance a “back burner” issue. But doing nothing does not mitigate the risk.

Here are few best practices to help you get started :

Review and confirm correct Harmonized Tariff and Schedule B codes in January and July as updates occur.

Check EAR regulations for correct ECCN and license exemption codes. Are you automatically using EAR99 and NLR? Bis.gov can help.

If exporting under ITAR you need a responsible trained officer.

Check common “Red Flags” such as denied parties lists, entities lists, and unverified lists. Once again, bis.gov provides details and training.

Review export documentation for possible improvements.

Make export compliance a front-end process not a last minute shipping function.